U.Va. Orders End To Frat Pledge Period

Investigation Mounted

CHARLOTTESVILLE — The University of Virginia has ordered fraternities to end their pledge period for new members by Saturday because of reports of inappropriate behavior.

The Daily Progress reports that fraternities face a 6 p.m. Saturday deadline to finish pledging new members. If they miss the deadline, they could lose official university recognition, which means they could lose school resources and the right to participate in university-sponsored activities.

The move comes as one fraternity has been placed under investigation, and officials say others are likely to be examined. University officials won't reveal details of the investigation.

The pledging period has been going on for nearly nine weeks.

Officials have repeatedly warned fraternities this semester not to haze anyone, including a February address by university officials to fraternity presidents.